Azores Mountain Biking

First, I would like to thank Ricardo Marques for some information and permission to use the wonderful photos on this page. Note that many are by Cristina Silva Sky. So thanks to Cristina as well.

There are varying levels of terrain, and therefore varying levels of skill required to mountain bike in the Acores. Some areas would only be suitable for experienced mountain bikers. While others could be tackled by less experienced bikers.

The area pictured first is Lagoa do Fogo in Sao Miguel. The next few pictures are from there as well. It is a protected natural reserve formed by a dormant volcano. I enjoy visiting there (look for a clear day as it often fogs or clouds over due to the elevation) and have hiked in the area but never biked.

I believe that the trial pictured in the first three pictures above is known as the cathedral trail. It offers spectacular views of the crater and of the coast from varying points.

The next area pictured is also in San Miguel and is known as Pico dos Bodes. I am not sure that it is an official trail.

Mountain Biking in Santa Maria

Other Acores Biking Pictures

I believe the photo above is from Tronqueira. I have driven this road and it's quite beautiful.

Oh, by the way, are you wondering what the quality of road cycling is here? Aside from in the narrow city streets, and old cobblestone streets, there are great quality asphalt roads to check out. Like this one here (I don't encourage riding on the wrong side of the road though!):